The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and with it, the excitement of witnessing the world's best football players in action. But have you ever wondered who could have played for England, had they chosen to do so? Here's a look at some of the stars who could have been part of the Three Lions' squad, but ultimately chose to represent other nations.
The Stars Who Could Have Played for England
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Erling Haaland, the Manchester City striker, is a force to be reckoned with. Born in Leeds to a Norwegian father, he could have represented England. However, his heart lay with Norway, and he has since become a key player for the Norwegian national team, scoring 60 goals in 53 games. His decision to commit to Norway is a fascinating one, especially given his English roots.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (DR Congo)
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, a London-born defender, initially represented England at youth levels. However, he switched his allegiance to DR Congo in 2025, a move that surprised many. The 28-year-old's decision to play for a different nation is a testament to the complexity of international football and the personal choices players make.
Antonee Robinson (USA)
Antonee Robinson, a product of the English football system, was born in Milton Keynes and raised on Merseyside. His father, born in England but raised in New York, gained American citizenship, and Antonee committed to the USA in 2018. This story highlights the influence of family and personal connections in a player's international choice.
Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo)
Axel Tuanzebe, born in DR Congo but moving to England as a child, is a graduate of Manchester United's academy. He made one appearance for England Under-21s but ultimately chose to represent DR Congo. This decision showcases the impact of a player's upbringing and the influence of their environment on their international allegiance.
Scott McTominay (Scotland)
Scott McTominay, a Lancashire-born Scotland international, has become a central player for his country. His career took off after switching to Napoli in 2024, and he has since scored 15 goals in 73 appearances. McTominay's story is one of personal growth and the impact of a change in environment on a player's performance.
Felix Nmecha (Germany)
Felix Nmecha, the son of a German mother and a Nigerian father, was born in Hamburg but moved to England in 2007. He played for both Germany and England at youth levels but ultimately chose to represent Germany. This decision is a reminder of the complex web of personal and cultural factors that influence a player's international choice.
Antoine Semenyo (Ghana)
Antoine Semenyo, born in London to Ghanaian parents, developed his football career exclusively in England. However, he has long been a supporter of the Ghana national side and made his first appearance for the Black Stars in 2022. Semenyo's story is a testament to the power of cultural identity and the influence of family and upbringing on a player's international choice.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Jamal Musiala, an attacking midfielder, moved to England at the age of seven and spent much of his childhood in the UK. He played for England from under-15 to under-21 levels but ultimately chose to represent Germany. Musiala's decision is a fascinating case study in the impact of personal connections and the influence of a player's environment on their international allegiance.
Michael Olise (France)
Michael Olise, with a British-Nigerian father and French-Algerian mother, had a choice of four international sides. Born in London and coming through the English academy system, he opted to represent France. Olise's decision is a reminder of the complex interplay between personal, cultural, and environmental factors in a player's international choice.
Folarin Balogun (USA)
Folarin Balogun, born when his mother was on a trip to New York, could have played for England or Nigeria. He played for both the USA and England at under-18 level but ultimately committed to the USA in 2023. Balogun's story is a testament to the influence of public support and the complexity of a player's path to the senior national team.
These stories highlight the fascinating interplay between personal, cultural, and environmental factors in a player's international choice. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, it's a reminder of the diverse and complex world of international football.
